Get away from it all at this remote Gulf Island cabin

Cortes Island escape

This cabin's weather-beaten exterior makes it clear that this isn't a shiny new luxury getaway, but rather a cozy home with a ton of heart. Note the many trees poking out in all directions around the cabin, adding to its sense of solitude.

2 / 14

Cortes Island escape

This fantastic view from the deck gives a pretty good idea of the surroundings. The ocean is right at this cabin's doorstep. This deck also makes for a great place to sit in the evenings and watch the sun set.

3 / 14

Cortes Island escape

The kitchen is simple but well stocked. There's a four-burner cooktop, as well as a toaster oven, and to save space, the fridge is on the back porch. We love the wood panelling inside this cabin, and the forest views you can gaze out on as you make dinner.

4 / 14

Cortes Island escape

There are so many amazing tiny touches in this cabin. The mix of wood and exposed brick looks great, and there are lots of cute decorations everywhere. The glass mosaic on the bathroom door is adorable.

5 / 14

Cortes Island escape

Bringing even more sunlight into this space is a skylight over the dining area. The view from the window is of the ocean. We also appreciate the colourful patterns in the vintage window at the back.

6 / 14

Cortes Island escape

Here's a chair you could spend a lifetime in. Whether you want to read or simply gaze out over the amazing view, this little nook has plenty to offer. There are even binoculars in case you want to investigate your surroundings a little further afield.

7 / 14

Cortes Island escape

The wood stove keeps the cabin toasty warm on cool evenings. We love a good under-the-stairs reading nook, and this one delivers.

8 / 14

Cortes Island escape

Small decorative touches and knickknacks make it clear that this space has been lived in and loved. This is no impersonal holiday home. Instead, it's a beloved getaway with lots of classic cabin decor.

9 / 14

Cortes Island escape

Three words: claw foot tub.

10 / 14

Cortes Island escape

This cute bedroom has great book shelving built into the walls. It's also got a great sheepskin cover for the desk chair, ensuring that even moments spent at work will be cozy and warm. The oar-shaped wood on the wall is a nice touch, and of course, there are more of those cute vintage windows.

11 / 14

Cortes Island escape

Another great bedroom. This one is actually on the second floor, and the door leads to the patio. The amount of sunlight that penetrates the room is ideal. It almost feels like a treehouse.

12 / 14

Cortes Island escape

This broad view of the main space shows the full layout. This cabin isn't huge, but it packs a lot of punch.

13 / 14

Cortes Island escape

Of course, having some company is always a good idea. This cabin is a great place to bring your furry companion, who is sure to enjoy the natural setting as much as you do.

Related galleries

Get away from it all at this remote Gulf Island cabin

Sometimes it feels impossible to get away from the demands of modern life. It can feel like wherever you go, you’re surrounded by people and buildings and devices. But this incredible little cabin on Cortes Island, B.C., is proof that genuine moments of escape do exist. The cabin is so isolated that to get there …

Sometimes it feels impossible to get away from the demands of modern life. It can feel like wherever you go, you’re surrounded by people and buildings and devices. But this incredible little cabin on Cortes Island, B.C., is proof that genuine moments of escape do exist.

The cabin is so isolated that to get there from Vancouver, you must take three separate ferries. The complicated travel process to reach the cabin is worth it, though—once you get there, you’re surrounded by blissful silence. So what do you do when you’re finally alone? Well, you can canoe or swim in the ocean, explore the nearby forest, or stay in and read or play one of the cabin’s many board games. The space is cozy and so homey that you might find yourself perfectly content to stay in.

Cortes Island is one of British Columbia’s Northern Gulf Islands, located in the channel between Vancouver Island and the mainland. It has a population of about 1,000, and there is a lot of wide open space between residences. The island is an ideal place to get away from the anxieties of urban life—it’s quiet, peaceful, and full of gorgeous scenery—and this cabin is the perfect place to enjoy it all from. Take a look, and get inspired for your next serene getaway.

Keep up to date with Dockside E-newsletter

Email:

Please enter a valid email address.

Almost finished... We need to confirm your email address. To complete the subscription process, please click the link in the email we just sent you.

By submitting your information via this form, you agree to receive electronic communications from Cottage Life Media, a division of Blue Ant Media Solutions Inc., containing news, updates and promotions regarding cottage living and Cottage Life's products. You may withdraw your consent at any time.